downhillmaster

Looking to spend up to $2k on a new hardtail. I know I can most likely get more value out of a used but just prefer new at this time.
I regularly ride on the road but this will be my first time on trails.
Not much clue what to look for but after poking around online I have my eye on a Giant Fathom 1 at $1,850.
Seems to fit the bill and my LBS has it in stock.
Good choice?
Any suggestions/advice appreciated.

downhillmaster

Here’s a link to the bike.

https://www.giant-bicycles.com/us/fathom-29-1

Steve B.

I very much like my Specialized Chisel Comp. It's an SLX equipped bike, so decent components. Very nice frame, not overly stiff. It is flat-out the best climbing bike I've ever ridden, Lot of of bang for the $1900

downhillmaster

That looks like a great value but it appears none are available right now.

katsup

The Fathom 29 1 has SRAM SX (other than the NX rear derailleur). SX is SRAM's lowest tier group. I have no personal experience with this group, but have read a number of negative things online. Suggest you do the same.

I'd suggest being patient and waiting for the right bike vs buying what is available.

For a suggestion, the Trek Roscoe 7+ is what I'd look at. Search on youtube for hard tail party and watch the review on the Roscoe.

Steve B.

One of my local shops shows L and XL in stock, Plainview, L.I., NY, but it's hit and miss

Specialized Chisel Comp - The Bicycle Planet | Long Island, NY

2old

I'm a big Giant (redundant?) fan and own a 2022 FS model, but IMO the Trek Procaliber in the same price range is superior, and in fact the Marlin (about $1K) may be close depending on how the Giant front fork and wheelset compare with the Trek's Rock Shox and house wheels.